Writing Children’s Books to Increase Engagement in Non-major Introductory Chemistry Courses

Abstract

To increase student interest and engagement in introductory chemistry courses for non-science majors, we incorporated a children’s book project based on the chemistry discussed in class. Students were given agency in topic, target age range, and book format to encourage creativity, to integrate student interest and major, and to challenge communication skills. Postactivity surveys provide positive student impressions of the project. Recommendations for implementation are included.